This is a city that appreciates its cello; after all, how many rock bands can you find in other towns where the cello is a central part of the sound, as is the case with star Milwaukee act I'm Not a Pilot?

But one can never show too much appreciation for this fine instrument. Recognizing this fact, the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music is presenting "Art of the Cello" at 7 p.m. tonight. And it's not just your average everyday cello player who'll be showcasing the instrument, but Tamas Varga, a cello player for one of the world's most esteemed orchestras, the Vienna Philharmonic. Varga will be playing solo compositions for cello from composers Ligeti, Ibert and Gal, and the evening's concert will also pay tribute to the piano, courtesy of guest pianist Stephen Beus. | Jan. 15, 2013»Read Full Blog Post

A pared-down MSO, two remarkable voices and an extremely communicative conductor joined forces in an absolutely captivating evening of Baroque music on Friday.

Guest conductor Nicholas McGegan led about 40 Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra strings, plus harpsichord/continuo organ, through an engaging program of Handel, Pergolesi and Scarlatti. They were joined by soprano Yulia Van Doren and countertenor Daniel Taylor. | March 30, 2013»Read Full Article